The Fairfax Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the county’s public school system to draw business dollars into cash-strapped classrooms. The nonprofit Foundation for Fairfax County Public Schools is hoping to raise $5 million to $10 million for a long-term endowment that would help students pay for their costs, including athletic and Advanced Placement exam fees, and expand school programs. Businesses previously could make tax-deductible donations to the schools, but Chamber of Commerce President Jim Corcoran said streamlining the process would amp up modest funds to at least seven figures this year.

“From the business perspective, you’re developing your future work force in doing this,” Corcoran said.